Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the vibrant flavors of our Ultimate Thai Noodle Salad with Lemon Ginger Dressing! This refreshing dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a quick and healthy option for lunch or dinner. With just 30 minutes of prep and cook time, you can whip up a colorful medley of fresh vegetables and rice noodles, all drizzled with a zesty dressing that will leave you craving more. Perfect for warm days or as a delightful side dish at your next gathering, this salad is sure to impress your family and friends. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen!
Ingredients
- 8 oz rice noodles
- 1 cup bell peppers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup cucumber, julienned
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup peanuts, crushed
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add rice noodles and cook according to package instructions, typically 4-6 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse immediately with cold water to stop cooking process.
- While noodles are cooking, prepare the vegetables. Thinly slice bell peppers, julienne cucumber, shred carrots, and chop green onions and cilantro. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
- Create the lemon ginger dressing by whisking together lime juice, soy sauce, grated fresh ginger, and honey in a small bowl until well combined and smooth.
- Once noodles are cooled, add them to the vegetable mixture. Pour the prepared dressing over the noodles and vegetables, tossing gently to ensure even coating.
- Toast crushed peanuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Transfer the dressed noodle salad to a serving platter. Sprinkle toasted crushed peanuts and additional chopped cilantro on top for garnish.
- Serve immediately at room temperature or chilled. The salad can be refrigerated for up to 2 hours before serving.
Tips
- Perfectly Cooked Noodles: To achieve the ideal texture, be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking the rice noodles. Rinse them under cold water immediately after draining to stop the cooking process and prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Prep Ahead: You can chop your vegetables in advance and store them in the refrigerator. This will save you time on busy days and ensure that your salad is ready to go whenever you need it.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables! Snap peas, shredded cabbage, or even diced mango can add a delightful twist to this salad.
- Make It Your Own: Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more honey or maple syrup to suit your taste. You can also experiment with the acidity by adding more lime juice for a tangier flavor.
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the salad. This will not only enhance the flavor but also provide additional nutrition.
- Garnish for Greatness: Don't skimp on the garnishes! Toasted peanuts and fresh cilantro add not just flavor, but also a satisfying crunch that elevates the dish.
- Serve Chilled: This salad is delicious served at room temperature, but if you have time, let it chill in the refrigerator for an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
